FA Cup action takes centre stage this weekend, as National League South and North sides enter the competition in the Third Qualifying Round, reports Leon Imber. 

Billericay Town make the short journey to Braintree Town on Saturday in an all-National League South tie.

Kevin Watson’s side have picked up a single point from a possible 15 this season, slumping in 20th position in the league standings.

Concord Rangers, who currently sit third in the league table, also face a side of the same division, as they host St Albans City.

Chris Search has enjoyed a positive start in the dug-out with the Beach Boys and they earned a respectable point against Maidstone United last time out.

Meanwhile, Isthmian Premier side Bowers and Pitsea make the trip to Bishop’s Stortford; the two sides met in the league just three weeks ago, the result being a 2-2 draw.

Since then, both sides have remained undefeated.

Elsewhere in the competition, East Thurrock United and Needham Market will do battle at Rookery Hill.

Both have suffered a slow start to the campaign with the visitors winning only once so far in all competitions.

Great Wakering Rovers will play at home against an in-form Peterborough Sports outfit.

Stephen Butterworth’s side fell to a 2-1 defeat away at Tilbury on Tuesday evening.

Their opponents on Saturday have made an exceptional start to the season, winning seven out of a possible eight matches so far including a thrilling 8-4 victory over Stourbridge.

In the Isthmian North, Essex sides clash as Canvey Island host Hullbridge Sports.

Mark Bentley’s side will be full of confidence as they saw off Hashtag United 4-0 last time out, while Darren Manning’s Hullbridge have yet to taste victory so far this season.

The visitors picked up their first point of the season last weekend against Aveley but were beaten 4-1 by Felixstowe and Walton United on Tuesday.

Also in the division, Hashtag United welcome Felixstowe and Walton United to the Len Salmon Stadium.

Jay Devereux’s side had struggled so far since their promotion last season, however, achieved their first three points of the season on Monday night as they impressively beat Maldon and Tiptree 3-0.

Lastly, Basildon United make the journey to Dereham Town.

The Bees drew 1-1 at home to Witham Town on Tuesday.